AMERICUS — On Friday, May 6, Americus will hold its monthly “First Friday” downtown-wide open house from 5-8 p.m. Restaurants, shops and businesses will host a variety of activities ranging from live music and art exhibits to discounts and free samples. All activities, exhibits and performances are free of charge. Residents and visitors are invited to spend the evening strolling the streets of downtown and experience the city’s scene and culture. Maps and playbills detailing the evening’s events will be available at participating locations. Anyone and everyone is invited and welcomed.
Live music for this May event will include a steel drum band at Little Brother’s Bistro. The Bistro is pairing their island flavored music with a Caribbean inspired menu. The Americus Sumter High School Band will be at Lenny’s Market. Their Concert Band, Percussion Ensemble, and Jazz Band will be treating listeners. Bittersweet Cafe will host a live jazz performance and Dillinger’s Bar & Grill will have live music to go along with food and drink specials.
The Rylander Theatre is inviting everyone in for a tour and will be hosting a performance of “Motherhood Out Loud” by the Sumter Players. Seating starts at 7:30 and curtain is at 8 p.m. An art show and demonstrations will be on display at The Americus Center for the  Arts. Center Stage Market is  hosting an art show with free samples and live music. For a demonstration of airbrush makeup techniques, visitors are invited to The Look Salon.
Nearly all of the downtown shops, stores and restaurants will be open and offering special and discounts. Allie’s Boutique will be hosting a “ship & shop.” The Maze, Minick Interiors and Jewels will be giving samples and discounts.
This event is organized by the First Friday Association of Americus (FFA) with the primary mission to cultivate downtown Americus’ economic and cultural enrichment by providing a platform for entertainment and social engagement to the general public on a regular basis.